






: Cee Oe JUBILEE. 
matin. 


a oipessisie! Oe AN in) (ee 


ores 














“on oe 31st of Cctaber, 1517, 


a Accompanied with an Aecount ‘of the Solemnities and the Order of ig ss 
fe "Divine Service. | jee . sf NEP 








4 a mt Hier ails 1b ieh k Bu nie anders: 
, Gorn aie ms t AroN 1 























gin 









































| 











LH Rambay del ” P Maverigh snp? 
Baa: 7 
LUTHER 
auf dem Reichstac zu worms. | before the Diet of worms. 





Liar stthe wh, 

th han jicht andeyrs. 
Gorr hclfe mir! 
Aen / 


“Here I stand, 

7 cannot act otherwise. 

so fely me Gop / 
Minter / 


Seinted ty San! Maverich NE 


«THE BLESSED REFORMATION.” 


A SERMON 


PREACHED IN ST. PAUL’S CHURCH, 
_IN THE CITY CF NEW-YORK, 
ON the 31st of @ctober, 1817, 


on OccAsION 
OF THE SOLEMNIZATION 


OF THE 


THIRD CENTURIAL JUBILEE 
IN COMMEMORATION 
REFORMATION COMMENCED BY 


DR. MARTIN LUTHER, 
On the 31st of October, 1517. 


ACCOMPANIED WITH AN ACCOUNT OF THE SOLEMNITIES AND THE 
ORDER OF DIVINE SERVICE. — 


33 es ne 
BY THE REV, FREDERICK CHRISTIAN SCHAEFFER, 
PASTOR OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH, 
IN THE CITY OF NEW-YORK. 


————— 





Hier stehe ich, ich kann nicht anders: 
Gott helfe mir! Amen !— 
Luter, 
Sei semnainnaal 3 





NEW-YORE: 
- PUBLISHED BY KIRK & MERCEIN. 


PRINTED BY T. & W. MERCEIN, 
93 Gold- Street. 


—— 


. tof 12. 


Southern District of New-¥, ork, 3. 


BE IT REMEMBERED, that on the fourteenth day of No- 
vember, in the forty-first year of the Independence of the United 
States of America, Kirk & Mercein, of the said District, have de-. 


posited in this office 


the title of d Book, the right whereof they 


claim as Proprietors, in the words following, to wit: 5 
“©The Blessed Reformation.’ A Sermon preached in St. — 
Paul’s Church, in the City of New-York, on the 31st of October, 
1817, on Occasion of the Solemnization of The Third Centurialk 
Jubilee, in Commemoration of the Reformation commenced by 
Dr. Martin Luther, on the 31st of October, 1517. Accompanied 


with an account of the Solemnities and Order of Divine Service. , 
By the Rey. Frederick Christian Schaeffer, Pastor of the Evange- 


lical Lutheran Church, in the city of New-York. 


Hier stehe i 


ch, ich kann nicht anders : 


Gott helfe mir! Amen !—Zuther.” PE aa 


In conformity to the Act of the Congress of the United States, 


entitled ‘‘ An Act for the encouragement of Learning, by se- — 
curing the copies of Maps, Charts, and Books to the authors and 
proprietors of such copies, during the time therein mentioned.” 


Aud also to an Act, 


entitled *‘ An Act, supplementary to an Act, 


entitled an Act for the encouragement of Learning, by securing tha 
copies of Maps, Charts, and Books to the authors and proprietors 
of such copies, during the times therein mentioned, and extending 


the benefits thereof to 


®istorical and other pr 


- arts of designing, engraving, and etching ~ 
ints.” 
JAMES DILL, 


5 ae 


Clerk of the Southern District of New-York. 


*» 


Ret: x. 


TO THE REVEREND. 


FREDERICK DAVID SCHAEFFER, D. D. 
PASTOR OF | 
ST. MICHAEL'S AND ZION CHURCHES, 


PHILADELPHIA, 


THE FOLLOWING SERMON, 


WITH THE ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTS, 


RELATIVE TO THE SOLEMNIZATION OF THE THIRD 
- CENTURIAL JUBILEE, 


IN THE CITY OF NEW-YORK, 
IS VERY AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED, 
BY 


HIS DUTIFUL SON, 


: 


THE AUTHOR. 


~ sh 


AY A MEETING OF THE TRUSTEES, ELDERS, AND DEA- 
at oe 4 

CONS. OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN 
THE CITY OF NEW-YORK, NOVEMBER 6TH, 1817, 

Tt was unanimously Resolved, That the thanks of this Board be 

presented to the Reverend Freprnick Curistian ScHarFFER, 

for his laudable exertions towards solemnizing in a becoming manner 

the Third Centurial Jubilee of the Reformation, and for his very able, 

appropriate and eloquent Sermon, delivered in St. Paul’s Chureh on 


that memorable occasion; and that he be epee solicited fo 
furnish a copy thereof for publication. i i 


Ordered, That the Committee of Arrangement, Metars Ww. Wit i 


mEnDENG, Peter Scumipt, and Frepericx C. Havemeyer, wait 
on the Revertnd Mr. Scuarrrer with a transcript of this_ Resolu- 
tion. Q 


- Extract from the Minutes, pines he 
PETER SCHMIDT, Secretary. 


: pe SEY 


AT. A MEET ING OF a) NEW-YORK HISTORICAL | SOCIETY, 
11th November, 1817. 
“Resolved, That the fans of this Society be returned to the Rey. 
Frepericx C. Scuarrrer, Minister of the Evangelical Lutheran 
Church in this City, and Member ofthis Society, for his appropri- 
ate discourse in St. Paul’s Church, on Friday the 31st of October 
lasf, in commemoration of the Zhird Centurial Jubilee of the Re- 
formation, and that he be respectfully requested to atts a copy 
for publication. | * of 
JOHN PINTARD, 
Recording Sec’ry. 


o 


A SERMON, &. — 


‘TO Christians ‘this is a, Joyous occasion. To 
mankind, enlightened by pure and unadulerated Chris- 
tianity, this is a day of exultation. We celebrate an 
event which is as great and glorious in its effects, as 
these effets are marvellous and everlasting. We 
would perpetuate the memory of a great man, athe re- 
membrance of a momentous work. 


Dear brethren, we are assembled on this day, in or- 
der to speak of the great thtngs which the Lord, the Head 
of his Church, has done for us, and whereof 7 we are glad. 
We are convened i in the’ sanctuary of the Lord, to so- 
jemnize “ the most momentous event (says Mosheim,). 
that distinguished the church after. the fifteenth cen- 
tury ; and we may add, the most glorious of all the re- 
volutions that happened in the state of Christianity since 
the time of its Divine aid Immortal Founder. It was 
that happy change introduced into religion, which is 
known by the title of the “ Bugssep Rerornarion.” ¥ 


Tt is this, but more especially the commencement of 
that glorious event, that we now celebrate, 


* See our Jearned and eminent Mosheim’s Eeelesiastical Histery. 


6 


We revert to a new era, which, eis hundred years 
ago, dawned upon the world: To this day even its ef 
fulgence beams, wherever religious light and’ liberty 
exist. When we take a retrospective view. of that mo-. 
mentous period, “and of intervening centuries, we be- . 
hold the conquest of the true “ Rights of Man” over dia- 
bolical intolerance. We perceive the trophies.of the 
victory which Reason obtained over the’ blackest super- 
stition- Sound Religion overcame the _ mystery © of ini- 
quity. It was the triumph of the BIBLE over the com- 
bined enemies of the Cross of Chak 

At the cotiimeeenent of the sixteenth century, the 
mists of error, the black clouds of superstition, the 
night of sin, had almost enveloped the'light of the glo- — 
rious gospel of Jesus. A faint glimmering was scarce- 
dy visible through the thick darkness of encouraged pre- 
_ judice and supported infatuation. The religion of the 
day consisted in gaudy ceremonies and absurd per- 
formances.. An arrogating and impious Pope, assum- 
ed an authority and power unknown in the annals: of 
the world; and applied it to the basest and most de- 
grading purposes. His idolatrous phalanx, and the 
servile creatures in his gorgeous train, who rose or 
sunk at his nod, were malignantly indefatigable. It 3 
seemed as if truth had been proscribed, as though the — 
High and Lofty One wasto be robbed of his Honour and : 
Majesty. The“ gazing multitudes were Bp jad 


a 


7 


astray by the mystery of iniquityworking with all power, 
and signs, and lying wonders, and with all decevwoableness 
of unrighteousness ! The moral, and I may say the 
political condition of mankind was sunk to the lowest. 
pitch of degradation. , 


THEN it was that ‘the Lord God Omnipotent,” who 


2 arose in 


_reigneth “from everlasting to everlasting, 
his majesty,—arose to dispel “with the brightness 
of his coming,” the darkness which overwhelmed the 
earth,—to dissipate the gross darkness which covered the 
people’ !—He operated by means. He awakened a LU- 
THER. He endowed him with alove of truth and righte- 
ousness. He inspired him with courage, animated 
him with fortitude, and implanted, as it were, a holy - 
zeal and a spirit of perseverance to baffle the associat- 
ed powers of guilt ;--to remove the most trying dif- 
ficulties,—to surmount the greatest obstacles. Luther, ‘ 
whose steady arm was nerved by the Omnipotent God, 
commenced the work of breaking down the strong 
walls of ignorance and profaneness, undismayed by 
the implacable activity | of patina oatiene! of 
Apaitie hatred. 


The amiable MELANCHTON, and other distinguish- 
ed servants of God, actuated by the same impulse, elicit- 
ed by so noble, so admirable, so extraordinary an ex- 
ample, assisted in demolishing the baneful fabric of ir- 
religion and impiety. The holy temple of God was 


ae 


again rebuilt - in magnificence. ‘: The glory i re 
Lord filled the house of. the Lord.” The Christian, . 
the true Catholic religion, again appeared in ¢ pal 
purity and pristine simplicity: The word of God, di- ; 
berated from the shackles which —_— i i o 
again was brought to light. 


‘The spiritual Seine the moral light, the ‘religious. 

and political liberty which WE so)eminently. enjoy, and he 
which in some degree. Protestants and ‘Christians, at 
large possess, may bé traced to the day which on this 
occasion we are assembled to celebrate-—as. the | har- 
binger of such great advantages, as the precursor. tol 
such inestimable blessings :—to the thirty- first of Octo- oe 
ber, fifteen hundr ed-and seveniecn! In this” momentous Se 
’ period, and in the auspicious, event to which, im regu- 


Sept ie sage Dan course, it led the way, not an individual. denomina- 


tion of Christians alone, but the whole human family, Be 
is deeply interested... Exulting humanity will ever re- - 
gard so memorable a day with joy and gratitude to-, 
“wards the Sovereign Arbiter of events, who can ren- 
der all things subserv ient to his gracious and i iagesigs 
purposes. 
God hath no pleasure in the misery and destruction of ~ 
suntners, but that they should forsake the paths of. igno-— 
rance, unbelief and iniquity, and enjoy the light of his 
heavenly grace. Jtis his pleasure that men should come 
unto a knowledge of truth,—that they should possess that 


9 


peace and happiness, and finally that celestial and eter- 
nal felicity, for which he hath made such abundant, 
such glorious provision. With our God is mercy, through. 
the only Mediator Jesus Christ, by sincere repentance, and 
an active faith ; and with him there ts plenteous Redemption. 


‘This, beloved brethren, this was the grand doctrine, 
the great, indestructible, evangelical truth and princi- 
ple;—in support and defence of which that distinguished 
man of God, MARTIN LUTHER, publicly stepped for- 
ward, with all boldness and intrepid determination, on 
that eventful day which we on this occasion solemnize. 
In the language of David,* and of the Apostles, ‘‘ hav- 
ing the same spirit of faith, according as it is written,” 
he could declare, asin the passage which we have cho- 


sen for the foundation of our present reflections: 
, 4 


I believed, therefore have I spoken. 
2 Cor. 4. 13. 


We are thus led to review and consider :— 
Tae CHIEF MOTIVES BY WHICH LUTHER was in- 
fivENcun! AND THE PRINCIPLES BY WHICH HE WAS 
PROMPTED TO SPEAK AND TO ACT; WHEN HE COMMEN- 


cep * THE BLESSED REFORMATION.” 


When we recur to the time in which Luther lived, 
and to the circumstances then existing, when the re- 


* Psalm 116,’ 10. 
> . 


10 


formers laboured; when we consider that papal power 
and imperious domination was then at its zenith ; ‘the 
step which Luther took must certainly appear to, us 
as bold and resolute, as it was justifiable and effce- 
. tual. iF 


The so called “ Vicegerent,” and “ Vicar of 5. esus, 
Christ,” from the pinnacle of his blasphemous glory, 
might look abroad into the world, and defy, almost 
every power on earth. Sovereigns, kingdoms, ‘ na- 
tions were held in “ durance vile” by a papal charm. 
Yetan Augustine Monk broke the withering spell !—— 

\ 

The course which Luther pursued, was not the work- 
ing of caprice, the impulse of enthusiasm, nor the re- 
sult of disappointment or malice. He believed, and 
therefore, having a belief which was founded on the 
BIBLE, the immortal “pillar and ground of the 
truth:” he dared to speak: and, blessed be God, he 
did speak ; and spoke with effect. 


Many indeed, who are wofully ignorant, or barred 
against conviction,—who are blinded in their minds, 
or enemies of the truth,—impeach the motives, and re- 
prehend the conduct of this illustrious servant of Je- 
sus Christ. 


But whatever may be advanced, or even insinu- 
ated in disparagement of the indubitable character, 


rH 


of that Great Reformer; whatever may be said in 
order to reduce him to the level ofa disappointed and 
vindictive adventurer; will always carry with itself 
its own contradiction: will develope its intrinsic evi- 
dence of the falsity of. the "grounds upon which such 
aspersions are made. 


To judge of the motives of men by other criteria 
than their own obvious actions, is presumptuous and 
unwarrantable. Here then we may leave the deeds, nay, 
the whole train of Luther’s actions to speak, which 
stamped upon his name so high a celebrity, and gave to. 
his memory an imperishable renown. By these it must 
appear, even to unfavourably prejudiced and biassed 
minds, that he was sincere-in his professions: that he 
spoke because he believed ; and, that the welfare of his 
fellow-men, and the glory of his God and Redeemer, 
Jay nearest his heart. In this were centered the mo- 
tives which actuated him in the cause of truth, and 
pure and undefiled Religion; the paths of which he 
trod,—believing, and convinced, and experiencing, 


that they are paths of pleasantness, and that they lead . 


to a glorious immortality. 


This was revealed to him by the holy Scriptures. 
From the time that he first saw a Bible at the Univer- 
sity of Erfurth, in the year 1501, he made the Word of 
God his study and delight. The Bible was his com; 
panion, the man of his counsel, @ad his guide. 


12 


Having previously been acquainted with only de- 
tached ‘portions of the word of life, which he imagined 
constituted the whole of the sacred scriptures ; and, 
being in process of time placed in various: conditions, 
often most humiliating and servile; his studies were 
almost entirely prohibited, and as is reasonable to sup- 
pose, his knowledge of the scriptures was for a time 
exceedingly limited. , Yet, he embraced every oppor- 
tunity to extend his knowledge of evangelical truth. : 
Though his researches were often impeded by adverse. 
circumstances, he was still enabled continually to 
make new’ discoveries in that extensive and prolific 
field, which had just, with exhilarating prospect, open-— 
ed upon his enraptured sight. 


His talents, his acquirements and his virtues, were. 
not unheeded. His opportunities for improvement, 
and of benefiting others, became more and | more 
important; until he was urged, and even compelled, 
by_his friend and patron, Sraueriz, (a German noble- 
man, and superintendent of all the Augustine Monas- 
teries in Germany,) to accept the dignity of a Doctor 
of Divinity. He declared, that though he was as it 
were forced to accede, yet now he considered himself 
pledged to search the scriptures with redoubled assi- 
duity ; and from them to derive advice and informa 
tion, by which to teach others how to live as heirs of 
immortality, and as Christians how to.die. _ ‘ foe 


‘13 


Being ever mindful of his solemn obligation to the Bi- 
_ ble, he insisted that this was ‘the only fountain of reli- 
gious instruction: the pure source of Christian know- 
ledge... He maintained conscientiously, that the Word 
of Godshould be preached faithfully, in purity, and 
without adulteration. Here, brethren, we see conti- 
nual evidence of the sincerity and purity of his pro- 
téstations. His conduct confirmed the declaration: 
I believed, therefore have I spoken. 


He had already observed and reprehended the li- 
centiousness which prevailed among the monastic or- 
ders, and deeply deplored the moral degradation of 
mankind at large. Even before he was the open and 
avowed protestor against the errors of the church of 
Rome, and against the irreligion of those whose example 
should be a directing light to the multitude ; he had by 
his reprehensions given umbrage to many who wore 
the ascetic garb, and who in their conduct were far 
from walking worthy of the Gospel of Christ. This 
undisguised attachment to the cause of his Master fre- 
quently subjected him, as might be expected, to the 
designedly odious appellation of “ heretic.” 


' Jn 1510 he was delegated to the Pope, on business 
affecting the order of which he was a member. 
During this journey he was grieved to be a witness of 
abuses, prevalent to a far greater extent than he had 
previously imagined. He was astonished to find that 


14 


the nearer he approached the résidence of “ His Holi- | 

ness,” the more conspicuous was the unholiness;—the 
more aggravated was the immorality and Jibertinism 
of the ecclesiastics, the superstition and aR ot the 
laitya 3 te" * Mee is 


And now, more than ever, he beheld the imperious 
necessity of a thorough Reformation. Yet, he little. 
thought that he himself should become, in the hand of 
God, the chief, the signal instrament for the accom- 
plishment of that momentous object. Though this 
was foreign to his thoughts, yet he continued “ earnest- 
ly to contend” for what he could not but acknow- 
ledge as “the faith which was once delivered to the — 
saints.” Having an unshaken’ confidence in God, he 
committed hirasclf, in the integrity of his motives, and 
in the righteousness of his cause, to Him that judgetle 
righteously. mec Wee 

He heeded not-man. He paid indeed all respect 
and obedience to the powers that were placed over 
him; and inculcated on others. the ges of “render-. 
ing to Cesar the things that are Cesar’s,” and of giving 
honour to whom honour is due. But, in cases of con- — 
science, he laid it down as a consistent and apostolic 
pracinls that “we ought to obey God rather than 
men.” From this he never swerved. He set an ex 
ample to all around him, to render ‘to God the things 
that are God’s.”. When he thought it his duty, and , 


13 


>) 


_justifiable by the Word of God, to reprove those whe 

were high in authority, he was never deficient in cou- 
ragé and-resolution. The uncertainty, whether he 
would eventually gain the approbation, or incur the 
displeasure, of those.who were the objects of his re- 
buke and advice, could not prevent him from speaking 
what he believed. In order to be assured of the rec- 
titude ofhis principles, and the propriety of his con- 
duct, he conferred “not with flesh and blood :’—he 
consulted the oracles of God. 
The Lord can make all things work together for 
good. ‘Even the cunning craftiness of those who lie 
in.wait to deceive, is sometimes overruled as the in- 
strument of effecting his gracious designs.” Thus it 
was,ordered on the then present occasion. 


The boundless cupidity and insatiable rapaciousness 
of the Roman see, suggested a bold attempt to re- 
plenish her coffers. In 1516, new orders were issued 
to the Legates throughout the papal domains, to en- 
gage qualified persons to preach and dispense the fa- 
mous InpuLeEnces, which Leo X was disposed to grant 
to all persons, who had money to purchase them, for 
all sins, past, present, and to come, how enormous so- 
ever their nature, and glaring their turpitude !! 

The mendicant Monks readily accepted the lucra- 
tive commission ; the Dominicans engaged in it with 


16 


peculiar zeal and activity. Such of them as with po- 
pular talents, unblushing effrontery, and perfect de- 
‘votedness to the Roman ‘see, could impose upon the 
credulity of the vulgar, were the fittest, and choicest 
instruments for the effecting of this nefarious plier 
Who, my brethren, has not,heard of that enterprising 
Monk, who hadbeen chosen for this purpose by ALBERT, 
Archbishop of Mentz? Who, that lives in an enlight- 
ened country, where ubiversal toleration, and liberty 
of conscience are characteristic, has not heard the - 
name of Joun Trrze1, of execrable memory ? « This 
formidable agent, whose craft equalled his impudence, 
undertook the task with wondrous alacrity and success. 
SAXONY was the devoted field where he executed 
his iniquitous commission ;_ and where, by his “ exagge- 
rated commendations of the efficacy of his indul- 
gences,” he obtained “among the superstitious multi- 
tude innumerable customers.”—Mark, my hearers, 
mark the overruling Providence of God ain i wid 
commenced the Blessed Reformation ! 5 


Tetzel “blazoned the virtues of the oan in co- 
lours of the most transcendent glory; vaunted the 
rich treasures of merit, now opening from the Church’s 
repository; the keys of which were intrusted to 
HIM! “He could exceed all wants; supply all defi- 
ciencies, and cancel all crimes.’”? ‘In the spirit of this. 
daring insolence, he boasted that by his indulgences, 


17 


he had saved more souls from hell, than St. Peter had 
saved by his Gospel !---All this had an awfully danger- 
ous influence over the ignorant minds, and the super- 
stitious conduct of the gaping crowd, The unrestrain- 
ed commission of various crimes was common. Evi- 
dences of contrition and repentance were now unseen. 
Tetzel’s mischievous traffic’ was calculated to destroy, 
and wh€rever it had effect, it did destroy, every ves- 
tige of true and sober piety. Having proceeded with 
such “matchless insolence, indecency and fraud,” it 
required no exertion on the part of Tetzel, to crown 
the climax of his audacious impiety, which he blasphe- 
mously “carried so far as to derogate from the all-suf- 
ficient power and ‘influence of the merits of Christ!” 


Tats, my brethren, this was the eventful opportunity 

which the intrepid Luther embraced, in order to un- 
- fold “to the view of a blinded and deluded age, the 
truth, which had struck his astonished sight.” At 
Wirrengere he preached the necessity of true and 
evangelical repentance. With “ boldness,” like that 
of the apostles Peter and John, he made known that sal- 
vation which ts in Christ Jesus alee :—for there is no 
ether name under heaven gwen among men whereby we 
must be saved.* He zealously denied the ascribed vir- 
tues of those indulgences, and proved the blasphemy of 
paying respect to them, and to the relics which Tetzel 
offered for money, in such abundance. 


* Acts4. 12, 13. 
3 


1e 


Complaints w were now made by many, to =e pena 
emissary, of the manifest ineficacy of his i 
and of the fraudulent manner in which he © 






them. Tetzel was enraged. He thremiened most fl 
triously. He sought to.intimidate ; and to prostrate at: 
once the righteous anereat which had eka reared 
her head. ‘fe kiN 

Luther, who «became still more confirmed in his be- 
lief of the saving doctrines of the Bible, ceased not to 
speak. It seemed impossiblé to check his rational zeal 
in the cause of God. ‘He addressed himself on this 
alarming subject, to various ecclesiastics, and most 
earnestly implored them to exert their power and in- 
fluence without delay, to obstruct the propagation of 
Tetzel’s pretensions, which were so opposite to all 
revealed truth, and so subversive of is Christian 
order. ; 


Some, in reply, confessed that. tliey could not act 
against the authority of the Pope; others rémained 
silent; whilst the infamous trafic proceeded with suc- 
cess. Luther, “unable to smother his just indigna- 
tion, raised his warning voice,” and firmly believing, 
he spoke,—in winery-Five TuEsIs, which he put up at 
the Castle Church at Wittenberg, and which he pub- 
licly maintained. In these propositions, fraught with 
scriptural arguments, he ‘censured the extravagant 
extortion of these questors; and plainly pointed out 


19 


the Roman pontiff as a partaker of their guilt, since 
he suffered the people to be seduced by such delu- 
sions, from placing their priicipal confidence in Christ, 
the only proper object of their-trust.”’* ~ 


This took place on the ever to be remembered 31st 
of October, 1517. Three hundred years have since 
elapsed. On this solemn day we commemorate that 
glorious event, which was the commencement of a re- 
volution, more momentous than any “by which civi- 
lized society had ever till then been convulsed,” a re- 
volution, in the effervescence of which the grandeur of 
Jordly pontiffs was humbled ; the strong holds of igno- 
rance and superstition were overwhelmed; the con- 
sciences of men were liberated from all human tyran- 
ny ; their inherent rights were set in a proper point of 
view; and the pure and undefiled religion of Jesus 

_ Christ swas re-established in the-face of the world! 


The astonishment which this bold step of Luther ex- 
cited, was great and universal. His propositions (of 
more honqurable memory than Tetzel’s indulgences) . 
aided by the then infant typographic art, were in a 
very short time disseminated throughout: Germany, 
ahd even throughout Europe. 


Whilst the disappointed and chagrined monks, and 
the mortified mercenaries of Rome decwed most cla- 


* Mosheim. 


20 


morotsly ; THOUSANDS, on the other hand, amazed at 
the courageous and invincible love of truth’ which | 
animated Luther, rejoiced in his bold and vigorous op- 
position to error and iniquity —Like the fertilizing 
dews, which kindly descend from Heaven, and gene- 
rously impart health and vigour throughout vegetable 
nature ; the exhilarating blessings of genuine Religion 
have profusely been shed upon needy mankind from 
that memorable period; and to this signal day continue 
to extend their benign influence, refreshing the hearts 
of weary wanderers towards a happy eternity.---May 
‘these inestimable ‘blessings ever be shed abroad, and 
from day to day extend their enlivening influence, un- 
til “‘all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of 
our God!”’ 


Dear brethren, bear with me a few moments longer. 
The subject before us is too extensive to be dismissed, 
before we glance at the subsequent part of Luthér’s: 
career, and at the glorious: issue of the event which 
we this day celebrate. From all, we shall derive addi- 
tional support in favour of the application of the text; 
and the inflexible integrity of Luther will be incontro- 
vertibly established. . 


The circumstances connected with his opposition 
now- assumed a more serious aspect, and would have 
been alarming to one who was possessed of a mind 
and faith less firm than that of Luther... But he “tramp- 


21 


led under foot all personal considerations.” He was 
summoned by the Pope to appear at Rome. Through 
the instrumentality of his influential friends, however, 
he was confronted with the vile Cajetan, at Augsburg. 
Here he was ordered to retract. In vain threats were 
used to compel him to sin against the truth, against the 
dictates of his conscience, and against his God. The 
only condition upon which he would consent to recant 
was: that his principles and conduct should be refuted 
by proofs advanced from the Bible. This was found im- 
possible tobe done. Murderous snares were here laid: 
for his feet, but God frustrated the: evil designs of his 
enemies. . 


This candid and bold champion of the truth was ne- | 
vertheless disposed to treat the. Pope with deference ; 
and to submit to his dispassionate judgment and impar- 
tial decision. Yet, the many means and arts used by 
the “infallible”. ¢uide of the Romish church, instead of 
cicatrizing her bleeding wound, served only to acce- 
lerate the period when Luther: became convinced 
that’ the Pope was in no wise the “ Vicar of Christ,” 
and .that he had no evangelical elaim, and no title what- 
ever to the power. and authority which he wielded. 
Every occurrence ,obviously ‘strengthened the intre- 
pidity and fortitude of the illustrious mover of the Re- 
formation; and every attempt on the part of his oppo- 
nents, urged him on the more in the path of truth and 
integrity: till finally he renounced all allegiance to 


22 


the papal throne, avowed his non-adherence, and posi-- 
tively denied the authority of the Roman pontiff. 


His writings, characterized by a peculiar style and 
force; and which were perused with avidity by all- 
classes of readers, had already obtained a welcome 
and most extensive circulation. They were not con- 
fined to Germany, nor ‘to the German language. 
Wherever they appeared, they scattered the seeds 
which to this day bring forth fruit unto life eternal. 
The haunts of idleness, and the resorts of mendi- 
cant monks, were: lessened in number. The venders 
of indulgences were laughed to scorn. Princes, 
groaning under the oppressive burden of consummate 
( arrogance, tired of the papal yoke, now began to feet - 
more courageous, and acted with becoming indepeén- 
dence. Men, in general, dared to exercise the inhe-- 
rent right of thinking. And truth, being open to dis- 
cussion, exposed to investigation, soon waved her 
streaming banners over a numerous and admiring 
army: ir” ; . 

Luther had wise and powerful patrons; but, on the 
other hand, the Pope anda host of his partisans were 
violently apposed, and arranged against him, in hostile 
array. They breathed only slaughter and revenge. 
They thirsted for blood. Yet it must not be forgotten, 
that they had not neglected to entreatand to sue; to 
proffer splendid bribes; to hold forth high offices and 


23 


dignities to the unassuming and lowly-minded Teacher 
-of Theology, in order to seduce him to silence. As 
well might they have attempted to shake the moun- 
tains, as to cajole or intimidate the intrepid apostle of 
reform; or by worldly advantages to corrupt his inte- 
grity. Their arrows, whether barbed by flattery or 
by threats, fell spent at his feet. He believed; he 
spoke. And whatever he spoke and wrote, was eager- 
ly attended to, notwithstanding the threat of excom- 
munication against all who would give ear to his irre- 
sistible arguments. « the | & : 


These he’ continued to disseminate assiduously, and 
with unexampled resolution to promulgate the result 
of his conviction and: belief. But never did-he lose 
sight “of his Divine Master, his. God and: Protector; 
whose Authority and Religion he so undauntedly vindi- 
. eated. - Though therefore the hired assassin knew that 
canonization would be the reward of success in his 
attempt upon the valuable life of this Christian hero ; 
though the murderous emissary was constrained to ex- 
press his surprise even to Luther himself, that he should 
be unguarded and alone; yet he was terrified and be- 
took himself to flight, when the appalling reply of his 
intended victim sounded in his guilty ears: “ I am in 
the hands of God,” replied that intrepid champion of 
the truth, “ HE is my protector and my shield,—what 
can man do unto me ?”’—— 


24 


Soon after the commencement of this revolution in tis 


the church of Rome, Maximilian I. descended from . 
the throne to the grave. Charles the V. succeeded 
him as emperor, and in 1521 convened the Diet or 
Worus, where Luther was summoned to answer for his 
conduct. Neither the malignity of his enemies, nor 
the kind concern of faithful friends, could prevent him 
from presenting himself, at the risk of his life, before 
that powerful assembly. To the Elector of Saxony 
he expressed his strong confidence in God; who, if he 
thought proper, ‘could certainly preserve him. He. 
declared that his care was directed to the Gospel ; and 
that if necessary for its defence, he was willing to shed 
his blood! He was “ determined to profess Christ in the 
teeth of his enemies, and to leave the rest to.\his Master.” 
He assured his friends that he did not go to Worms to. 
recant, but to obéy the summons of God. « If,” said 
he, “if the emperor calls me, in. order to execute me, 
and on account of my answer declares me an outlaw, 
I shall not hesitate to go. ’ For through the grace of 
God, I shall not flee, nor leave his Word in danger.” _ 


One of his particular friends begged him to remain, 
and not to continue his hazardousjourney. ‘ No,” he 
exclaimed, “and if there were as many devils at 
-Worms, as there are tiles on the roofs, yet would! go 
ia!” 


_ Though Luther could not tell the result of the oc- 


% 


22° 


-casion, and though he knew - that fe life was in 


jeopardy, yet he knew that God was’ on his side :— 
that his Redeemer lived. He could therefore appro- 
priate to himself that cheering word of God.unto Jere- 
miah: “ Be not afraid of their faces, for I am with thee 
to deliver thee, saith the Lornp.””* When he would 
not retract what he had said, nor condemn his writings, 
which were laid before him (and which as well as him- 
self had already been denounced as heretical by the 
Pope,) the Diet demanded of him to declare himself, 
either by yea or nay. He replied in a sublimely so- 
iemn manner: “ Unless I can be convinced and over- 
come by proofs from H oly Writ, or by open, clear and 
perspicuous reasons, I cannot, and will not recant: be- 


cause it is not safe nor adviseable to do any thing 


against one’s conscience.-—Here I stand; I cannat act 
otherwise : so help me God. Amen!” 


Not even the emperor Charles himself, no one in the 


-assembly could, indeed even now no one can withhold 


his admiration of so noble a reply,---so extraordinary 
and laudable a resolution,---such invincible integrity 
and zeal, inso just a cause. Thousandsin the succes« 
sive ages, which have intervened between that mes 
morable period and the present festive day, have 
also admired ;—and, sure I am, that at this moment 
every one in this numerous assembly feels peculiarly 
happy in listening to the reiterated and precjous de; 


» Jer. 1. 8. 
4 


26 
claration of that great and illustrious Reformier ; whe 
believed, and therefore spoke so nobly ; and whose 
“memory” will ever be “ blessed.”---The lamp of 


Luther’s well earned fame is “ filled with everlasting 


oil.”’ . 


Lest I might detain’ you too long, I am necessitated 
to pass over many interesting facts ;—I yield with re- 
luctance. 


Luther was not. suffered to fall a.prey to his ene- 
mies. The Lord, without whose permission “nota 
hair’ shall fall from the head of those who put their 
trust in him, never forsook his faithful servant. On his. 
return from Worms, he was forcibly taken away from. 
his affrighted companions, at the instance of his zealous: 


friend, Frederick of Saxony ; who prepared for him, 


at the castle of Wartburg, a place of secure retreat. 
Here he was safe against the murderous attempts of his 
enemies, who were ignorant of his abode. “ As chaff 
before the wind,” were now the fulminating acts of : 
the Pope. These in vain enjoined upon every prince 
and every person who should have in his power the 
excommunicated Doctor, the denounced enemy of 
the Roman Empire, to deliver him up to signal 
punishment. ‘ 

Luther, whilst ten months at Wartburg, was not inac- 
tive. He continued to speak, in his writings, to his’ 
friends, animating them to faith and perseverance. He 


27 


was indefatigable in his biblical researches, continually 
advancing in the knowledge of the original languages 


‘of the divine records ; and qualifying himself more and 


more for his excellent-translation of the Holy Scriptures 
into the German tongue. This he diligently pursued, and, 
published in detached portions ; till at length he pre- 
sented to the world that most valuable treasure: a com- 
plete version of the Word of Life, level to the capaci- 
ty of the humble unlettered Christian! 


This itself is a sufficient evidence of the purity of 
his motives, and the integrity of the principles which 
prompted him to speak and to act. By furnishing a 
German version of the Bible, which poured such a 
flood of light upon the minds of our forefathers, he 
thereby deserves the gratitude of succeeding genera- 
tions. 


Luther had the satisfaction to perceive, that he had 
neither believed nor spoken in vain. The spark which 
was struck at Wittenberg, gradually kindled a fire of 
such magnitude, as to warm and enlighten. all Eu- 
rope, and even to enlighten the world! Brethren, all 
the subsequent storms of persecution could not over- 
whelmit. All the blood of martyrs could not extin- 
guish it. Nornine shall subdue it; until its radiant 
beams illuminate the globe. “ Jf my cause,” said Lu- 
ther, when a friend did not know what to advise, “ if 
my conse is not of God, it will not last more than two or 


28 


three years. 1 if at is of God, then nothing. can quench 4b!” 
Yes, it was or Gop. Not two or three years only : 
three hundred years have expired, and the blessed work, 
ig still going on !—God’s name be praised ! ; 


The evils indeed which in all ages, and in the mo- 
dern Christian Church, have had too much sway ; and — 
which, at the present period even, derive support from 
the unhallowed dispositions and the sinful passions of 
men; every friend of humanity and of true religion 
willdeplore. Yet, on the other hand, a contemplation 
of the present state of things must afford us the purest 
joy. The grand principles of the Reformation, which 
Luther promulgated and established, are now better 
understood. Not human authority, but THE HOLY 
SeriptureEs, from which nothing can be detracted by 
free inquiry and enlightened -investigation, are con- 
sidered as THE STANDARD OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH. 
Tue Biss is THE Revicion or Protestants. 

In Germany, the cradle of the Reformation, the 
‘« protestants” are daily becoming more united in the | 
bond of christian charity. Whilst theasperities which in- 
deed too often affected the Great Reformers themselves, 
no longer give umbrage ; whilst the most laudable and 
beneficial exertions are universally made by evangeli- 
cal Christians to remove every sectarian barrier; the 
*« Evaneeticat Cuurcn” extending her pale, becomes 
more firmly established. And, though we have melan- 


29 


holy evidence that the state and disposition of the. 
present Romish Church calls loudly. for a reforma- 
tion, We must not omit the pleasing fact, thatmany of her 
worthy members are conscientiously-alive to the cause 
oftruth and enlightened christianity. Nota few, elicited 
by the spirit of the times, display an active zeal in the 
service of unadulterated Religion. With profound res- 
pect. I mention the name of the venerable, the learned 
and pious Lranper Van Ess, who has contributed in a 
very eminent and meritorious degree towards the. dif- 
fusion of the Holy Bible among his Roman Catholic 
brethren. And, who in this assembly ; who in this well 
informed city, is not acquainted with the exhilarating 
prospects of pure Religion in this, and in almost every 





country.? 


The leading principle of the numerous Bible Socie- 
ties, whose benevolent operations extend their health- 
ful influence to every quarter ofthe globe, is the prin- 
ciple of the Blessed Reformation. Copies of Luther’s 
German translation of the Bible, millions of which 
have already been distributed, are circulated to this 
day. Yes, the Bible speaks to distant nations; and in 
every tongue.—Christians believe ; therefore they speak 
the saving doctrines of the gospel.—The world listens. 
—God grant that it may truly embrace the Gospel of 
Christ! for it is the power of God unto-Salvation, to every 
one that believeth. ! 


To substitute any thing in place of this, was decided- 


39 


_ ly and evidently foreign to Luther’s thoughts. That 
it might be separated from the false traditions of men ; 
that it might be liberated from unhallowed, from ‘hu- 
man and pernicious ordinances 3 that it might go forth 
uncumbered, and be the test of men’s principles and 
actions ; that the abuses which were so studiously tol- 
erated might be removed ; that the church might be re- 
formed ; that Christianity—precious gift of Heaven a | 
might rise in all her native beauty: this was his heart’s 
desire, and ever present to his. “ fervent imagination.”’. 


He well knew that “ other foundation can no mah 
lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Curist.” 
He lamented that on this was built nought but “ wood, 
hay and stubble.” Praying for divine help, he at- 
tempted to remove the stupendous mass of accumulat- 
ed rubbish. 


A desire of self-aggrandizement, or sordid and sels 
fish motives, were as strange to Luther as duplicity or 
timidity. No temporal advantage could induce him 
t6 violate his conscience. 


He reprobated in the strongest possible termhs 
the custom of applying the appellation of “Zw 
iherans’’ to those who separated from the Church 
of Rome, and who adopted the revived principles 
of the gaspel. This term, which for the sake of 
human designation has been found convenient, is how- 
ever inconsistently retained: and, to speak g¢andidly, 


3k 

it argues a certain degree of disregpect to the senti- 
ments and injunctions of Luther. ‘ You shall be 
Christians, said he, and not Lutherans. Let no one say 
Iam a Lutheran or a Papist ; for none died for us, but 
Christ ; and therefore be ye Christians indeed. ‘For, 
while one saith I am of Paul; and another, I am of. 
Apollos; are ye not carnal!’ ’’- 


I should acknowledge it as rash, and in the highest 
degree reprehensible, were I to presume to uphold as 
perfect the character and all the, deeds of Luther. 
Even the mere attempt would deservedly be deemed an 
offence against those who hear me: and such amani- 
- fest contempt of their good sense would be aggravated 

by the consideration of the enlightened minds, and re- 
- fined understandings, which pervade my respected au- 
dience. If there are any concessions demanded, we 
cheerfully make them, and willingly go every justi: 
fiable length. 


The time in which Luther lived, the immensity of 
the glorious task which he undertook, the apparently 
insuperable difficulties and dangers to which he was 
exposed, the vengeful persecutions of his enemies, his 
requisite warm temper, and especially all things taken 
together, will bea silencing apology for all his frail- 
ties, for the vehemence of his character, and for the 
apparent extremes to which he was urged. For, 
brethren, we will not exempt from faults and weak- 


52 


nesses, the great Reformer himself. He, like the Ro- 
man Pontiff, as well as every human being, was fallible : 
he was but a man! 

Far be it from’ me also to say, that Luther was the 
only one who ever sincerely and zealously opposed 
the alarming pretensions, the enormous impositions, 
and the overwhelming tyranny of the Roman Hierar- 
chy. The attention-of intelligent Christians is called to 
familiar facts only, when they are’ reminded of Joun 
pe Pouirac, Ricuarp or ARMAGH, WIcx.iFFE, Hoss, 
JeRoME ‘or PrRaGvE, THE W'aLDENsEs, and others, 
who-contended for the faith which w was “once deli- 
vered to the saints.” 


But independent of the testimony which history af- 
fords on this head ; and, setting aside the details of ec- 
clesiastical record ; and even then to deny the proba- 
bility that in the deplorable state of the church, ante- 
rior to the Reformation, no one would have been con- 
cerned for the honour and glory of God, would be 
unallowable. It would be a libel upon mankind, to 
say that outraged reason, and suffering humanity, had 
mot made some efforts to breathe a purer air than the 
contaminated atmosphere which streamed from the. 
papal see. Yet, where was the man, where is the man, 
who amid such circumstances as characterized the 
period of Luther’s meritorious exertions, and such as 


35 


chetkered Ais rugged path: where was the man 1 who 
would have performed so much? 


He had, in process of time, able coadjutors and 
powerful auxiliaries. Many were the helps that were 
thrown in hisway. But would they by any other 
agent have been equally successful? Great as were 
his successors, and good and sincere as were their mo- 
tives and principles, yet MARTIN LUTHER will 
ever be considered as pre-eminent. 


Throughout all ages to come; on every succeeding 
Centurial Jubilee ; when all those, whose hearts on this 
joyful day dilate with gratitude towards Almighty 
God, have been removed from the stage of life; when 
the florid vigour of youth, ‘and the bloom of beauty 
shall be destroyed; when the frail bodies of those who 
are convened in this sanctuary shall be dispersed by 
“the last enemy,’’ and repose in the silent grave; 
when the “earthly house of this tabernacle” shall have 
been “dissolved ;’? when the hand of death shall have 
hushed the voice of him who now addresses you; 
when this “ mortal’’ part shall long have mingled with 
kindred dust; the memory of Luther, who with his 
last breath professed Christ and his Gospel, will ever 
‘be blessed. Luther will ever be revered as 
THE GREAT AND MERITORIOUS REFORMER. 


I am convinced, beloved hearers, that what has 
4 


34 


‘been’ advanced, has already excited such a train of re- 
flections, as to preclude the necessity of any practical 
‘remarks. 


We have beheld a glorious display of the power, 
the wisdom, and the goodness of God. “The Lord 
hath done great things for us, whereof we are glad ;--- 

‘‘ GIVE TO OUR GOD THE GLORY.’’ 


We feel our hearts warmed with gratitude. Let 
this gratitude be manifest by a zealous devotion to 
God, and by a diligent walk, “as it becometh the Gos- 
pel of Christ : that you may be found in peace, without 
‘spot and blameless.” ; 


And, dear brethren, possessing such great privileges, 
such inestimable and spiritual advantages, ‘see that 
ve walk circumspectly; understanding what the will 
of the Lord is.”’ Let your fervent supplications as- 
cend to the Throne of Grace, and implore the benign 
influence of God’s Holy Spirit, that you may be ena- 
bled to show forth his praise in your outward con- 
duct: ‘‘ giving thanks always for all things unto God 
and the Father, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 
Then will the confidence, the grace and peace which 
Luther possessed, be your portion also. 


You are aware of the great responsibility that rests 
upon those who know what is the will of the Lord, agd 


a9 


what he requireth. Oh happy are you, though difii- 
culties and trials beset your path, if following the im- 
pressive example which is placed before us, you obey . 
the truth, and can say: “For our rejoicing is this, the 
testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and 
godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the 
grace of God, we have had our conversation in the 
world.” Thus by observing practically the injunc- 
tion of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ: ‘“‘ Let your 
light so shine before men, that they may see your 
good works, and glorify your Father who is in hea- 
ven,” you will, by the blessing of God, contribute to- 
wards the enlargement of his kingdom. It will be 
your “ rejoicing”’ to be indefatigable in the cause of 
sound religion; and you will “be ready always to 
give an answer to every man that asketh you a rea- 
son of the hope that isin you; with meekness and 
fear, having a good conscience.” 


In our endeavours to “ overcome evil with good,” 
in defence of the truth, in defiance of opposition, in the 
conscientious discharge of our duties as Christians, as 
enlightened Christians, let us prove that we are actu- 
ated by a well founded faith, that our motives are 
pure; that our principles are strictly evangelical. 
And relying upon that God who strengthened and pro- 
tected Luther, let us say with him, in our whole con: 
duct: 

HERE I STAWD; I CANNOT ACT OTHERWISE: S@ 
HELP ME Gop! amen! 





4 
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Pe a oo eae diy (Lie ay 
Fin rth tye ERY F hs 
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———s 


ACCOUNT 
OF THE SOLEMNITIES, 


AND THE 
ORDER OF DIVINE SERVICE, 
On the 31st of October, 1817. 


== eee ee 











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OV SAS SAITEG Te 
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ee at =) i, Ee 
ste ti 
e, =*. 


ACCOUNT, &. 


IN the year 1617 and 1717, the commencement 
of the Reformation was celebrated in Europe. 


The thirty first of October, in 1817, was again hailed 
as an auspicious era; and, to judge from the measures 
that were taken, the recent Centurian Jugiter must 
have been splendidly solemnized. 


The Evangelical Lutheran Synod of the State of 
New-York, &c. adopted resolutions in the year 1815, 
inviting the attention of the Evangelical Lutheran Sy- 
nods and Churches in North America, to the approacli- 
ing Jubilee. All felt interested, and cordially assent- 
ed to join in the solemnization of the auspicious event. 


Tn fact, all enlightened Christians seemed to take a 
lively interest in an occasion so eminently calculated 
to perpetuate the remembrance of an eventful period ; 
and to revive agrateful sense of the great things which 
the Lord hath done for his Church, and for mankind 
at large, in the Blessed Reformation. 


40 


The Vestry af the Evangelical Lutheran Church 
in this city, were deeply impressed with the impor- 
tance of the event, and made arrangements to observe 
the 31st of October, 1817, in a becoming manner. 


It was so arranged that the solemnities in the Ger- 
man tongue should take place in the forenoon in the 
Lutheran Church. And to afford an opportunity to 
the very respectable number of citizens, of various 
religious denominations, who were desirous to partici- 
pate in the afternoon, when the solemnities were to be 
conducted in the English language, application was 
made to the Right Reverend Bishop Hosarr, for the 
use of the spacious St. Paul’s Church, which was 
promptly granted. 


Mr. Perer Ersen was engaged to superintend the 
musical performances in the German language. The 
Hanpet and Haypn Society, under the direction of 
Mr. P.S. Taynor, conducted the musical part in the 
English language. 


Tickets of admission were gratuitously issued to as 


many applicants as it was thought probable that the 


churches would contain. 


ee ‘ 


The Order of the solemnities, in the German and — 


English languages, was nearly the same. ‘ 


——— eee ee a 


41 


Printed copies of these were distributed in both 
Churches. | 


In the forenoon [ was assisted by the Reverend 
Mr. Mitvor, of the Protestant Episcopal Church ; and 
Rey. Mr. Lasaeu, of the Reformed Church. 


Inthe afternoonI had the support of the Reverend 
Mr. Fe.rtus, of the Protestant Episcopal Church; Rey. 
Mr. Mortimor, of the Moravian Church; and Rev. 
Mr. Minor, 

A grateful remembrance of their kind assistance with 
which they favoured me on that day shall ever be 
cherished. 


The concourse of people on this occasion was un- 
usually great. It is supposed that during the solemni- 
ties in St. Paul’s church at least jive thousand persons 
were present ; and thousands were disappointed in find- 
ing it impossible to eain admission. 


Though the crowd was irresistible, yet during the 
- solemn performance, which lasted more than three > 
hours, a peculiarly gratifying degree of decorum and 
attention pervaded this numerous assemblage. 


With feelings of the most lively gratitude I acknow- 
ledge the important services which were rendered 
6 


42 


by the Vestry, and particularly by the indefatigable 
committee of arrangement. F 
Ps gas ee 


My thanks I present also to Messrs. Erben and Tay- « 
lor, tothe gentlemen that constituted the Orchestra, and to 
all the ladies and gentlemen who in both churches assisted 
in the attractive and excellent musical performances. — 


They who on this occasion displayed such skill 
and proficiency ina most pleasing science; and who 
proved that musical talents are ina state of high cultiva- 
tion in this city, enjoy the gratifying reflection that 
they contributed to- the devotion of thousands—and, 
that if salutary impressions have been made; if good 
effects are the result of the Solemnization of the Third 
Centurial Jubilee in the city of New-York ; if the Gurory 
of Gop has been promoted ; they have been pleasingly 
instrumental, under God, in ensuring such a result. 4 

Tam confident that I speak the sentiments of all those 
who witnessed, and joined in the solemn exercise of 
the 3Ist of October, 1817; when I say: 17T WILL BE 
LONG ERE IT BE FORGOTTEN. F. Ci) 5. 


SOLEMNIZATION 


OF THE 


THIRD CENTURIAL JUBILEE, 
THE BLESSED REFORMATION, 
Dr. MARTIN LUTHER, 


ON THE 31st OCTOBER, 1517. 








Order of the Solemnities, in the afternoon, in 
St. Paul’s Church, Oct. 31st, 1817. 





The Hymns are translated from the German, as 
used in the forenoon. 


—=—<=3+o— 


NEW-YORK: 


PUBLISHED BY KIRK & MERCEIN. 


PRINTED BY T. & W. MERCEIN, 
_ 93 Gold-Street. 


—»— 


1817. 









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Y- & 

















a 
i ok 
Ai VP Sl aN 


1 tas tai 
: BS RG EEA 
‘ i nr; 


CHOIR. 


JUBILATE:. 


O be joyful in the Lord, all ye lands: serve the 
Lord with gladness, and. come before his, presencé 
with a song. ; 


——=— 
. 


Be ye sure that the Lord he is God: it is he that 
hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his peo- 
ple, and the sheep of his pasture. 


CHORUS. 
O go your way into his gates with thanksgiving, and 
into his courts with praise; be thankful unto him, and 
- speak good of his name. 


* Forthe Lord is gracious; his mercy is everlast- 
ing; and his truth endureth from generation to gene- 
ration. 


CHORUS. 


Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the 
Holy Ghost: As it was in the beginning, is now, and 
ever.shall be: world without end. Amen. 


46. 


CONGREGATION. 


Lord! who to us this day hast brought, 
With gospel blessings richly fraught, 
To thee be praise with one acclaim, 

- By all who own the Saviour’s name. , : 


N 


MINISTER. 


Great is our Lord, and of great power: his under- 


standing is infinite. 





There is none like unto thee, 
O Lord, Thou art great, and thy name is great in 
might. Who would not fear thee, O King of na- 
tions? for to thee doth it appertain. Thou, O Lord, 
art our Father, our Redeemer; thy name is from ever- 
lasting. 


CHOIR. 
The Lord is nigh, and ne’er forsakes — 
His flock of ev’ry nation; 
CHOIR AND CONGREGATION. 


He is their confidence, and makes 
Their blessing, peace, salvation ; 
For those who trust his truth, provides, 
And with afather’s hand he guides. 

“Give to our God the Glory! 


MINISTER, 


God is a Spirit: aud they that worship him, must 


47 
worship him in spirit and in truth.——He hath showed 
thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord 
require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, 
and to walk humbly with thy God ?—Present your bo- 


dies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, 
which is your reasonable service.— 


This is life eternal, that they might know thee the 
only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent. 
—The foundation of God standeth sure, having this 
Seal: The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, 
Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart 
from iniquity. 


CHOIR. 


All who the name of Christ express. 
Give to our God the Glory! 


CHOIR AND CONGREGATION 


Ye who the Saviour’s death confess, 
Give him, give him the Glory! 

To nought Sin’s lying idols lead, 

The Lord, our God, is God indeed. 
Give to our God the Glory! 


MINISTER. 


It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and 
to sing praises unto thy name, O most High. What 
shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits 





48 


towards me?—Give thanks unto the Lord; for he is - 
good: forhis mercy endureth forever. Give thanks 
always for all things unto God and the Father, in the 
name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Bless the Lord, oO 

my soul; and all that is within me, bless his holy 
name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all - 
his benefits.—While I live will I praise the Lord: I 
will sing praises unto my God while I have any being! 


CHOIR AND CONGREGATION. 


Here while I live, my feeble praise, 
Shall, Lord, to thee be given, 
Hereafter shall my bolder lays 
Sound through the Courts of Heaven; 
Awake my soul! lift up my voice! 
My heart with all thy pow’rs rejoice. 
Give to our Gop tHe Grory! 


CHOIR. 
lh. 
Berore Jehoyah’s awful throne, 
Ye nations bow with sacred joy: 


Know that the Lord is God alone ;: 
He can create, and he destroy. 


sy 
~ 


His sow’reign pow’r without our aid 
_ Made us of clay, and form’d us men ; 


49 


And when like wand’ring sheep we stray’ d, 
He brought us to his fold again. 


3. 


We are his people, we his care, 
- Our souls, and all our mortal frame ; 
_ What lasting honours shall we rear, 
Almighty Maker,.to thy name? 


4, 


We'll crowd thy gates with thankful songs, 
High as the heay’n, our voices raise ; 

And earth with her ten thousand tongues, 
Shall fill thy courts with sounding praise. 


Ge 


Wide as the world is thy command, 
Vast as eternity thy love ; 
Firm as a rock thy truth must stand, 
When rolling years shall cease to move. 


MINISTER. © 


LET US PRAY. 
(All kneeling.) 


Thee, the Eternal and Exalted—Thee, the only true 
God we adore !—Unto thee, the Almighty, All-wise 
and Ali-gracious God and Father, we give thanks, that 
thou hadst tender pity upon thy church; that through 

ra 


30. 


chosen instruments thou “didat restore, and hast hitherte 
preserved the Truths of thy Gospel. We beseech thee, 
guide us by thy Spirit, that the present solemn oc- 
casion may be sanctified unto us—that we may contin- 
ually confide in thy truth, willingly follow after the 
light of thy gospel—prove the fruits of our faith with 
an holy conversation, and, finally, depart hence in 
peace, through Jesus Christ, thy Son, our sane and 
Saviour. 

O Holy God, the Creator! 

O Holy God, the Mediator! Mage a: 

O Holy God, the Merciful Comforter ! 

- Thou Eternal and Exalted God! 
Evermore grant us thy peace. Amen. 


CHOIR. ‘? 


RECITATIVE. 


For behold darkness shall cover the sated and gross. 


darkness the people. But the Lord shall arise upon 
thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee: And the 
Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the bright- 
ness of thy rising. 
CHORUS, 
(Congregation Standing.) 


And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed. And — 


all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of the 


Lord hath spoken it. 
MINISTER. 


Reads the 46th Psalm—and Rev. 14. 6—18. 


wrk 


ol 
CHOIR and CONGREGATION. 


i. 


As breaks through veiling clouds the sun, 
So Lord, to us Truth’s light beams down, 
And Error’s mazy mists are fled. 
Christians! rejoice in this blest light, 
Look up to Christ, and watch when night 
With darkness threats your path to spread. 


2. 


Both Light and Truth his words display, 
Plain is the road, nor can those stray 
Who with so narrow’d views proceed ; 
The Lord himself has gone before, 
His path then let us follow o’er, 
To life eternal it will lead! 


Thus did that Man’s wide call once sound, 
Whom he who made the light beams crown’d 
With strength and courage from on high; 
And happy we! our fathers’ sight 
Beheld the Lustre of that light : 
The Lord hath done it, was their cry. 


A, 


Like them exulting, let us pay 
To sacred joy this’signal day, | 
And raise our hearts on rapture’s tides; 


52 


The Lord hath done it let us sing, 
Look upon Christ our leading King ;—~ | 


Pursue his steps; to life he guides ! 
PRAYER 
(in the Pulpit.) 
_ SERMON. 


CHOIR. ; 
(During the Collection, towards defraying the expenses of 
‘ the Celebration.) 
ANTHEM. 
Blessed be thou Lord God of Israel, our Father, for 
ever and ever. 


Thine O Lord is the greatness, and the power, and 
the glory, and the victory, and the majesty; for all 
that is in Heaven, and inthe Earth are thine. Thine 
is the Kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as Head 
over all. 


Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou 
reignest over all, and in thine hand is power, and 
might, and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give 
strength unto all. 


CHORUS. 
Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise 
thy glorious Name. 
MINISTER. 
The Lord be with you. 





53 
CONGREGATION. 
And with thy spirit. 

-.. MINISTER. 
We lift up our hearts. 


CONGREGATION. 
We lift them up to the Lord. 


. MINISTER. 
We give thanks unto the Lord, our God. 


CONGREGATION. 


It is just and reasonable. . 


MINISTER. 
Verily, it is just and reasonable, profitable and health- 


ful also, always to praise the Lord, the Almighty God, - 
and to thank him through Jesus Christ his Son. 


The Lord hath done great things for us, Hallelujah. 


CONCREGATION. 

The Lord hath done great things for us, whereof we 
are glad, Hallelujah. 

MINISTER. 
(Kneeling.) 

Yea, ereat things hast thou done, O gracious God 
and Father, for thy people! Thou hast made thy won- 
derful works to be remembered; they shall never be 
forgotten. By thy Omnipotence thou didst deliver our 
ancestors from the power of darkness; thou didst 
bless them with the knowledge ‘of truth, and didst 
translate them into the kingdom of thy dear Son; in 





54 


/ 


whom we have redemption through his blood, even the 
forgiveness of sins. ,Unto this day hast thou preserved 
these benefits to thy Church, and therewith hast thou 
also favoured us, whereof we are glad.and rejoice be-. 
fore thee. Oh Lord, preserve unto us thy word, for 
it is unto us the joy and rejoicing of our hearts. Pre- 
serve this rich treasure unto us, and to all who may 
succeed us. When centuries after centuries have de- 
scended into the depths of time, may thy people ever 
be enabled to rejoice, and to declare in truth on days 
similar to the one which now exhilarates our hearts : 
Thy word, O Lord, thy saving gospel is pure and un- 
defiled amongst us until this day. We beseech thee, 
Father, let the light of thy Gospel illuminate the 
world more and more, and shed its rays over all the 
nations of the earth. Do thou assist thy messengers 
and servants, who proclaim thy name, and preach thy 
holy religion, that they, and those who hear them, may 
glorify thee, and “be saved through faith in Jesus 
Christ, and him crucified. Grant us thy grace, that we 
may faithfully cleave unto thy gospel, walk worthy of 
the same, and at last die in its comforts cheerfully and 
happy, through Jesus Christ thy Son, our Lord,—then 
will we in a better world join with all the company of 
heaven, in the song of praise and of thy divine glo- 
Ties; 

(The whole Congregation rises and sings.) 

Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God of Hosts, Heaven and 
Earth are full of thy glory. Glory be to thee, O Lord 
Afost High. Amen. 


55 
CONGREGATION. 
(Dr. Martin Luther’s Hymn.) 


1y 
Preserve us steadfast in thy word, 
And check, O God, the wrong and guile 
Of Foes who Christ, thy Son, our Lord, 
Would of his Heavenly Throne despoil. 


2. 

Jesus, thou Lord of Lords, make known 
The greatness of thy mighty power ; 
Defend the Church thou call’st thine own, 

That She may praise thee evermore. 


‘Ss. 
God precious Comforter supply 
One mind to thine while here they stay ; 
In our last exigence be nigh, 
And lead from death to life’s bright day. 


CHOIR. 

DUETTO. 
How beautiful are the feet of him that bringeth glad 
tidings of Salvation, that saith unto Sion “Thy God 


reigneth.” 
CHORUS. 


Break forth into joy; glad tidings. ‘How beauti- 
ful are the feet of him that bringeth glad tidings of . 
Salvation, that saith unto Sion “ Thy God reigneth.”’ 

SOLO. 

Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty ; who was, 

and is, and is to come. 


56 
CHORUS. 
Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, and hath redeem- 
ed us to God by his Blood, To receive Power, and 
Riches, and Wisdom, and: Strength, and Honour, and 
Glory, Blessing—Blessing and Honour, Glory and 


power be unto him that sitteth upon the Throne; and 
unto the Lamb for ever and ever. 


GRAND HALLELUJAH CHORUS. 


(The whole Congregation standing.) 
Hallelujah, for the Lord God Omnipotent reigneth ; 
Hallelujah, the Kingdom of this World is become the 
Kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall 
reign for ever and ever, King of Kings, and Lord of 
Lords, and he shall reign for ever and ever, Hallelujah. 
MINISTER. 
Benediction. 
The Lord bless thee and keep thee. ” 


The Lord make his face to shine on thee, and be 


gracious unto thee. 
The Lord lift up his countenance on thee, and give 
thee peace. Amen. 





ERRATA. 
p. 5, line 5 from top, for effets, read effecis. 
p. 8, line 7 from bottom, for imperious, read impervious. 
p. 12, Jine 9 from bottem, for Stauptiz, read Sfaupits. 


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